Sustainable MEP Design for Historic Buildings: Transforming a deteriorating historic building into a BREEAM-certified apartment complex with low-carbon heating, ventilation, and energy-efficient electrical systems, ensuring compliance and real-world performance.
This refurbishment project revitalises a former nurses' home, transforming it into a BREEAM-certified apartment complex with 37 one- and two-bedroom units. The challenge lay in upgrading the building’s energy performance and comfort levels while preserving its historic character. March Consultants Ltd provided full MEP design up to RIBA Stage 4, including TM59 overheating risk analysis via a Dynamic Simulation Model (DSM) and SAP compliance calculations. The team continues to act as the client’s representative, overseeing the Stage 5 design, installation, snagging, commissioning, and final approval.
A key aspect of the MEP strategy was the integration of domestic hot water heat pumps, which eliminated the need for external heat pump units. This approach significantly reduced the visual impact on the building’s façade, helping to maintain its historic significance while improving energy efficiency. Combined with direct electric space heating using LOT20-compliant panel heaters, the solution provided a sustainable and low-maintenance system that suited the building’s constraints.
Careful consideration was also given to ventilation, where a natural ventilation strategy was developed to minimise the impact on the building envelope. By conducting a detailed TM59 analysis within a Dynamic Simulation Model, March Consultants Ltd ensured that overheating risks were mitigated while reducing reliance on mechanical cooling. Where required, heat recovery ventilation systems were introduced to maintain indoor air quality and further improve energy efficiency.
Given the constraints of the existing structure, particularly its low ceiling heights, service distribution required precise coordination with the architect. This led to the development of an architectural bulkhead design, allowing MEP systems to be neatly integrated without compromising headroom in the apartments. The above-ground drainage strategy was also carefully planned, ensuring efficient wastewater management while remaining fully accessible for maintenance.
The fabric specification was led by a detailed heat loss analysis and compliance check calculations, ensuring the thermal performance of the building envelope permitted the efficient operation of electric panel heaters. This approach reduced overall heating demand while aligning with Part L compliance.
Security and life safety systems were designed to meet modern standards while being sympathetically integrated into the building’s structure. A fully compliant fire alarm system was implemented alongside a smoke ventilation strategy, ensuring occupant safety. A domestic sprinkler system was also incorporated, offering additional fire protection without detracting from the aesthetic of the refurbished interiors.
Electrical systems were carefully designed to support power distribution, IT infrastructure, and access control requirements. Bespoke lighting solutions balanced functionality with visual appeal, incorporating both base and feature lighting with intelligent control strategies. To enhance the project’s sustainability credentials, a solar photovoltaic system was installed, further reducing reliance on grid electricity.
This project demonstrates March Consultants Ltd’s expertise in delivering high-performance building services within historically sensitive refurbishments. Through a combination of meticulous planning, advanced simulation techniques, and close collaboration with the design team, the scheme successfully balances heritage preservation with modern energy efficiency.
Quick Info:
Title: Westmoreland Road Apartments / Former Nurses Home
Location: Douglas, Isle of Man
Client: Manx Development Corporation
Architect: Ellis Williams Architects
Structural Engineer: BB Consulting Engineers
Quantity Surveyor: Bell Burton Associates
Main Contractor: NK Construction
